Teen Shot By Muskogee Pastor Released From Hospital

Tuesday, July 3rd 2007, 10:54 am

By: News On 6

MUSKOGEE, Okla. (AP) -- A Muskogee teen has been released from a Tulsa hospital, more than a week after he was shot in the chest by a church pastor during a failed robbery attempt. Eighteen-year-old Darnell Gilbert was not charged in the case before his release, and jail records indicate he has not been arrested. He was named in criminal information filed Monday in Muskogee County District Court against another suspect, 18-year-old Lawrence John Burkley, who has been charged.

Authorities allege in the court documents that Burkley, Gilbert and three juveniles were involved with the attempted robbery of a fireworks stand operated by the Wagoner Church of God early on June 24th.

Church pastor Charles Donnelly has said he fired on the teens as some of them rushed him and others were beating a 17-year-old member of his youth group. Muskogee County District Attorney Larry Moore says it appears that Donnelly acted in self-defense.

Related stories:

6/24/2007 - Pastor Opens Fire After Teen Church Member Is Assaulted

6/25/2007 - Youth Pastor Shoots Man During Attack